The debut album from late-blooming Austin cabaret singer and dancer Leticia Rodriguez strikes a balance between honoring the legacy of her legendary aunt, World War II-era singer Eva Garza, and presenting a modern personal vision of Latin music.

It's an especially delicate dance.

Garza, who died suddenly in 1966 at age 49, was a Lanier High School basketball star who achieved international fame in the 1940s and '50s. Her hits “Celosa” and “Sabor de Engaño” launched Columbia Records in Latin America.

Earlier this year, Garza's many achievements, largely forgotten, were celebrated at the Esperanza Peace and Justice Center. Rodriguez made a cameo appearance, singing one of her aunt's signature songs.

She returns for a Sunday afternoon concert. This time, she's top of the bill with a band that includes George Prado, son Aaron Prado and Henry Brun. Music begins at 3 p.m. Admission is $5.

“This is about presenting my album to the public in San Antonio,” Rodriguez said, “and also to recognize my aunt's contribution because it is about my aunt and her musical history.”

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Rodriguez was profiled on Public Radio International's “The World.” In that context, “La Americana” is a Garza tribute. The two never met. And Rodriguez's earthier readings depart from Garza's dramatic and lush approach.

George Prado described the recorded music as “nouveau Latino.” Rodriguez prefers “multicultural.”

At her first appearance at the Esperanza, Rodriguez displayed a breezy style and friendly confidence. She also showed poker-faced poise during a wardrobe malfunction, bringing down the house, much to the chagrin of her mother, who was in the audience.

“I've been an entertainer since I was a little girl,” she said. “In person, I can be shy and quiet. But I really have a calling to do artist work, entertainment work. That's what my calling is.”

Flaco Jimenez has often described his destiny as “in the blood.” The same holds true for Rodriguez, who has several relatives who are accomplished singers, film actors and musicians in the U.S. and Mexico.

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Rodriguez's mother, Sylvia, and her aunt Tina Moore have the charisma and wit associated with Mexico's golden era. In the '40s and '50s, they navigated the periphery of the film, fashion and music industry.

“All my family are characters,” she said. “They're very theatrical, so it's partly genetic.”

Trust Rodriguez to wow everyone again on Sunday, whether drawing on experience, nostalgia or bloodline.

“I love the relationship with the audience because it feels very right,” she said.